In the heart of London, the historic Somerset House is hosting an exhibition that challenges our perceptions of the ground beneath our feet. Titled “SOIL: The World at Our Feet,” the showcase brings together artists who draw inspiration from soil, highlighting its ecological, scientific, and cultural significance.
Among the standout works is Jo Pearl’s “Oddkin” (2024)—a series of fragile, otherworldly clay sculptures that symbolize the microorganisms essential to healthy soil. Presented theatrically in dimly lit vaults, Pearl’s work invites the public to confront the widespread fear of soil, particularly among urban dwellers.
The exhibition also features collaborations such as that of Tim Cockerill and Elze Hesse, whose digital photographs magnify soil bacteria into delicate, flower-like formations, revealing the hidden beauty of microbial life. Meanwhile, Herman de Vries offers a tactile experience with a grid of earth pigment samples, allowing visitors to explore the varied colors and textures of soil from different locations worldwide.
Bridging the gap between science and art, Miranda Whall takes a data-driven approach by translating real-time soil sensor data into intricate pinprick visualizations on paper. Her work highlights soil health metrics in an unconventional yet visually compelling way.
However, despite the exhibition’s innovative approach, some visitors feel a disconnect due to the lack of direct interaction with soil. While the artworks evoke soil’s significance, many rely on abstract or digital representations, missing the opportunity to fully engage the audience’s senses.
Beyond Art: Soil as a Cause for Activism
Outside the art world, soil has become a rallying cause for environmental activists. Model-turned-environmentalist Arizona Muse has founded the charity Dirt, which focuses on soil regeneration. Her transition from the fashion industry to environmental advocacy reflects the growing awareness of soil’s role in climate change mitigation and food security.
Muse has partnered with brands such as Weleda and designers like Anya Hindmarch to promote reforestation efforts and biodynamic farming practices. These initiatives not only restore soil health but also enhance biodiversity and carbon sequestration—key elements in the fight against global warming.
Scientists emphasize the urgency of soil conservation. A 2024 report from the Soil Atlas reveals that industrial agriculture—driven by monocultures and chemical inputs—has severely damaged soil biodiversity. Alarmingly, 86% of species at risk are affected by soil degradation, underscoring the need for sustainable farming solutions.
In response to this crisis, global think tanks like Aroura Soil Security are pushing for immediate action. They warn that if current trends continue, 90% of the world’s soil could be irreversibly damaged by 2050, endangering food security and ecosystem stability.
Soil: A Hidden Force in Climate Change
Soil’s significance extends far beyond agriculture—it plays a critical role in climate change mitigation. As one of Earth’s largest carbon sinks, soil stores more carbon than all forests combined. However, when degraded, it releases greenhouse gases, exacerbating climate change.
Recognizing this, initiatives such as the Sustainable Soils Alliance have emerged to promote public awareness and policy change. Through weekly blogs, newsletters, and research updates, they educate policymakers and the public on the urgent need for soil preservation and restoration.
Soil in Literature: A Metaphor for Identity and Culture
Soil’s influence extends into literature as well. Sylvia Elia Vargas, a poet known for her work on border life and bilingual identity, explores the connection between land and culture in her book Echoes of the Muse. Her poetry draws parallels between soil and heritage, reflecting how land shapes personal and collective identities.
This literary perspective aligns with the growing movement to reframe soil not as mere dirt, but as a living entity—one that sustains ecosystems, fuels creativity, and connects humanity to nature.
Conclusion: Rethinking Our Relationship with Soil
The intersection of art, activism, and science in exhibitions like “SOIL: The World at Our Feet”, alongside the work of Arizona Muse, Sylvia Elia Vargas, and environmental scientists, marks a broader cultural shift toward soil awareness.
These efforts remind us that soil is not just beneath us—it is part of us. It sustains life, culture, and creativity, yet remains overlooked and endangered. Through art, advocacy, and education, we are being challenged to see soil not as a passive material, but as an inspiration and a responsibility—one that demands our respect and preservation.
